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Penetration Testing Internship Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Penetration Testing Internship information

See Alabama salary details

$10

$18

$23

How much do penetration testing internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for penetration testing internship in Alabama is $18.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a penetration testing intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Penetration Testing Intern, you need a foundational understanding of networking, operating systems, and cybersecurity principles, often supported by coursework or relevant certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH. Familiarity with penetration testing tools such as Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite, and basic scripting in Python or Bash is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective written communication help interns present findings and collaborate with security teams. These skills are crucial to accurately identify vulnerabilities, document results, and contribute to an organization's security posture.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a penetration testing internship?

As a Penetration Testing Intern, you will typically work on tasks such as assisting with vulnerability assessments, participating in controlled penetration tests, and helping document findings for client reports. You'll often collaborate with senior security analysts and IT teams to learn industry-standard tools and methodologies. Expect to be involved in both technical testing and the preparation of clear documentation to communicate your results. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to real-world security environments and can significantly enhance your career prospects in cybersecurity.

What is the difference between Penetration Testing Internship vs Cybersecurity Analyst Internship?

AspectPenetration Testing InternshipCybersecurity Analyst Internship
Required CertificationsBasic security certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+)Similar certifications, often including Security+ or Cisco CCNA Security
Work EnvironmentHands-on security testing, vulnerability assessmentsMonitoring security systems, analyzing threats
Industry UsageCommon in security consulting firms, tech companiesWidespread across organizations with security teams

Both roles involve cybersecurity fundamentals, but Penetration Testing Internships focus on actively testing systems for vulnerabilities, while Cybersecurity Analyst Internships emphasize monitoring and analyzing security threats. The choice depends on whether you prefer hands-on testing or security monitoring within the cybersecurity field.

What is a penetration testing internship?

A Penetration Testing Internship is a temporary position where individuals gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity by learning how to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, or applications. Interns work under the guidance of experienced security professionals to simulate real-world cyberattacks and help organizations strengthen their security posture. This role typically involves tasks such as vulnerability assessments, security testing, and report writing. It is ideal for students or recent graduates looking to build practical skills in ethical hacking and information security.

What are the most commonly searched types of Penetration Testing jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Penetration Testing jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Penetration Testing Internship jobs in Alabama?

For Penetration Testing Internship jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Penetration Testing Internship jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Penetration Testing Internship jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Penetration Testing Internship jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Penetration Testing Internship job openings:

Senior Cybersecurity Analyst, McCrary

Auburn Univerisy

Auburn, AL • On-site

$84K - $108K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Overview
The Charles D. McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security at Auburn University seeks seeks an accomplished Senior Cybersecurity Analyst Edge Lab to strengthen cybersecurity. The Senior Analyst is responsible for providing vulnerability assessments, cyber threat intelligence reports, end point monitoring, incident response plans, penetration testing, Operational Technology cybersecurity testing and simulation, zero trust architecture recommendations, red teaming, and cyber threat tabletop exercises and training. Acting as a key integrator, this position bridges day-to-day security operations with applied research and field deployment teams to deliver innovative and resilient cybersecurity solutions.
Why Join McCrary?
The McCrary Institute defends the systems that power our national and economic security, our communities, and our way of life. Through its Edge Lab, McCrary integrates research, policy, and real-world operations to deliver practical cybersecurity solutions.
By joining our team, you will play a leading role in building the infrastructure and workforce that will protect America's most critical systems - right here in Auburn, Alabama.
Responsibilities
Understand and evaluate emerging malware threats, advanced persistent threat (APT) tactics, and attack vectors targeting embedded architectures.
Conduct in-depth threat hunting and develop actionable threat intelligence for state and critical infrastructure partners.
Lead comprehensive security evaluations, vulnerability analyses, and facilitate cyber tabletop exercises to strengthen resilience.
Assess the cybersecurity posture of systems and recommend mitigation strategies based on findings.
Direct advanced incident response activities, including containment and recovery, ensuring rapid and effective resolution of security events.
Design, build, and fine-tune SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) playbooks to streamline and enhance operational efficiency.
Prepare detailed technical reports, incident summaries, and operational briefs for internal stakeholders and external partners.
Support the integration of lab-developed cybersecurity solutions into maritime port operations for improved defense capabilities.
Evaluate emerging technologies and contribute to long term capability roadmaps.
Distill complex cybersecurity concepts into accessible explanations for non-technical customers, leadership, and cross disciplinary teams.
Serve as the co-principal investigator (co-PI) on selected research proposals and funded efforts, supporting technical vision, work plan development, budget inputs, and execution oversight.
Contribute to technical content for grant proposals, sponsor briefings, and future research opportunities.
Guide and mentor junior analysts and student interns, fostering professional growth and technical excellence.
Utilize strong communication and presentation skills.
Recognize, analyze, and solve a variety of problems.
May require travel to Mobile, Huntsville, and Washington, DC.
Ensure issues, risks, and changes are communicated promptly to both sponsors and internal leadership.
Perform other related responsibilities as assigned to advance the institute's cybersecurity mission and strengthen partner resilience.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, IT or other related field.
  • 4 years of cybersecurity operations or incident response experience.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Other GCIA, GCIH, GCFE, GCFA, Security+, CCNA CyberOps, OSCP, GPEN, GWAPT, CEH, CISSP or other equivalent certifications desired.

Contract Type
Continuing
Why Work at Auburn?
  • Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
  • Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
  • We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
  • Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
  • A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
  • Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.
Posted Date
7/13/2026